Print & Packaging Innovation Issue 2 2024

Print+Packaging INNOVATION Asia

ASIAN PACKAGING EXCELLENCE AWARDS:

Issue 2 - 24 In

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Asia Magazine

Published by Asian Print Awards Management Pte Ltd

65 Chulia Street #46-23

OCBC Centre 049513

Singapore

Print Innovation Asia

Labels and Packaging Innovation Asia

Asian Print Awards

Packageing Excellence Awards

Label and Packaging Conferences

Publisher

Paul Callaghan paul@printinnovationasia.com

Editorial

Elizabeth Liew elizabeth@printinnovationasia.com

Packaging Sales

Elizabeth Liew elizabeth@printinnovationasia.com

Digitization of Packaging opportunity at drupa!

At last. drupa is back, with less than a year to go the anticipation is building. Trying to work out what the theme of the show will be tricky, after eight years and the impact of COVID.

The drivers of sustainability, automation and workflow as the world continues to digitise dominate most print and packaging operations. Recruiting and retaining skilled staff is increasingly difficult for many businesses as baby boomers retire and the younger digital native generations demand a different approach to their working life.

Digital print developments will be centre stage across all graphics, industrial and packaging and there will be further announcements this year at drupa. Digital packaging offers many opportunities for commercial printers looking to move into new sectors as many traditional print applications continue to decline. The same dynamic is encouraging more equipment suppliers to offer digital printing systems for labels, corrugated, cartons, flexible packaging, rigid plastics, glass and metal packaging.

The figures show how the suppliers of digital print equipment for labels and packaging has developed since this technology map was first produced in 2019. There has been a steady stream of new entrants, from established analogue print equipment suppliers and new providers leveraging their digital print expertise.

Digital printing systems for packaging and labels in 2019, and in 2023

On top of these there are digital overprint systems and sophisticated bespoke integrations, some operating as a part

(right)

Packaging – a great drupa!

by Dr Sean Smyth – Analyst & Consultant, Smithers

range of packaging applications, offering new capabilities and functionalities, with steadily increasing productivity and lower costs.

Well, the good news for us print techies is this diagram will get even more crowded this year. Smithers tracks the developments in this sector, publishing reports and running conferences on digitally printed packaging. The European, American and Asian events bring together hundreds of brands, retailers, packer/ fillers, converters, agencies and designers together with equipment, substrate and ink/toner suppliers, with workflow and logistics companies also involved. These are excellent forums and over the years the discussion moved from technology issues into tangible benefits and improved business processes from adopting digital printing, and increasingly digital finishing.

Today quality, reliability and productivity are no longer issues for inkjet and

electrophotography packaging presses. At drupa there will be sheetfed inkjet machines offering the equivalent of process colour sheetfed litho at speeds of 11,000 B1 sheets per hour, while web presses offer speeds in excess of 400m per minute up to 2.8m wide. These are mainstream alternatives to litho, flexo and gravure alternatives.

The printhead and press manufacturers are developing methods to eliminate inkjet artefacts, compensating for nozzle outs and deviations in real time that extend the life of the heads and machine uptime. Inkjet will be the real winner, with faster machines being shown, particularly in flexible packaging. Ink technology is improving, with UV and water-based inks being employed for specific applications. There will be more highly pigmented formulations helping reduce the inkfilm thickness while lowering the total cost of ownership further boosting the share of digital print.

of manufacturing and filling lines. While there has been consolidation in the supply side it is striking that there have been few exits from the sector, the high number of players now competing in the wide

“While new digital presses are the shiny and sexy headline grabbers, even more important is the enabling workflow software.”

It is not just printing. Some vendors will show single pass, highly automated systems to print and finish corrugated boxes, cartons and flexibles in a single pass. The enabler is the combination of digital print with digital finishing. These will feature automated control systems that drive the press, measure and check the print then track through finishing which may be coating, laminating, cutting, creasing, folding and gluing, together with a wide variety of embellishments.

The digital front end controllers are becoming increasingly powerful, automating and driving the digital print unit while at the same time measuring

and controlling quality and then to set and drive the finishing technology. This approach helps replaces the traditional skills of press minders and finishing journeymen operators – important as skilled labour resources become scarcer.

While new digital presses are the shiny and sexy headline grabbers, even more important is the enabling workflow software. The only way of making money from a digital press is to produce saleable output and powerful workflow is vital to prepare the artwork files and keep the print queue well stocked.

“Digital printing allows brands to make content decisions later in the supply chain, closer to the consumer that helps packaging offer additional valuable functions.”

This can be a barrier for packaging converters entering the sector as many do not have the necessary prepress and data handling skills. drupa will see many companies providing solutions, integrating with management information systems to automate the administration needed to handle many short run jobs.

Workflow will become increasingly collaborative, with new designs produced and approved, then loaded into job queues for automated colour management and imposition with no manual involvement at the converter. The MIS is linked, ordering substrates and planning the production on printer and finishing to meet the customer requirements and optimise capacity at the converter.

Digital workflow can be daunting for packaging converters used to handle a few large jobs but it is the way of the world. Companies can explore solutions at drupa to simplify supply chains that

will be key to future success supplying packaging and labels. The market leaders offer a broad variety of creative software. They will show new methods to automate the repetitive processes involved with packaging design, approvals and prepress taking time and cost out of the process. Other players will offer specific solutions for integration and to optimise colour management, imposition and providing variable data capability.

All these packaging developments are ultimately driven by end customer expectations, or rather demands. In the increasingly connected world these demands and expectations are changing, with more engagement and interaction to improve the consumer experience of the brand. Digital printing allows brands to make content decisions later in the supply chain, closer to the consumer that helps packaging offer additional valuable functions. These additional functions move packaging beyond the traditional containment and protection functions, with information and promotion. A unique digital print can be connected to the cyber world, opening new

opportunities of logistical efficiency and greater consumer engagement.

drupa is the most important print show, because the exhibitors (and all the important ones will be there) show what they have, while using the event to showcase what they are working on to gain feedback. And digital packaging print (plus finishing) will very much be on the agenda.

There will be more machines for labels; corrugated – post and preprint, replacements for litholam; for folding cartons; for flexible packaging; for metal and there will be direct-to-shape machines doing interesting things on cans, aerosols, plastic and glass. Established players will show improvements to quality, speed and formats, with new inks and toners broadening the types of packaging they can produce.

I am really looking forward to seeing the newcomers who have already announced developments that they will be showing off and I know of several potential developments sadly under NDA that I am

not allowed to mention, which is the bane of a technology correspondent. That will change when drupa opens.

So, roll on May 2024!

About the author

Sean Smyth is a seasoned analyst and consultant at Smithers, bringing a wealth of expertise to the table. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for data-driven insights, Sean helps clients make informed decisions and navigate complex business challenges. His extensive knowledge spans various industries, including market research, strategic planning, and project management.

Armed with a strong analytical mindset and excellent problem-solving skills, Sean has a knack for uncovering hidden opportunities and optimizing business operations. His commitment to delivering exceptional results and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner make him a valuable asset to Smithers and its clients.

CGS ORIS: Excellence in proof printing & colour management

With a focus on accuracy and efficiency, CGS ORIS offers a wide range of color management and proofing solutions allowing its customers to successfully achieve color consistency across all print processes.

At the core of CGS ORIS' solutions is the patented unrivalled color management engine, combined with a web-based user interface, to simplify the creation of contract proofs for various pre-press and print processes. With its intuitive interface and advanced features like spectral spot color matching and prediction, as well as support for multi-channel profiles, Color Tuner provides color-accurate proofs at local and remote locations worldwide.

If you're trying to achieve consistent color across various printing devices, analogue or digital, under different printing conditions, PressMatcher might be just what you need. With its rich OEM history and ink-saving capabilities, PressMatcher ensures consistent color on any device and over any length of time. Designed to meet industry standards and in-house specifications, PressMatcher is the ideal tool to be tailored to your specific needs.

The introduction of X GAMUT marked a breakthrough in multicolor management technology, particularly for extended

color printing on digital and conventional presses. With X GAMUT there is no longer a need for extra ink inventory, lengthy job changes and excessive cost. Instead, the software uses a standard fixed ink set (CMYK+X) to reproduce spot colors on digital and conventional presses, without the use of spot inks. As a result, we not only ensure cost reduction, but also promote sustainability in printing.

FLEX PACK, in combination with the Roland VersaCAMM VSI series, offers efficient and cost-effective productions of color-accurate packaging proofs and prototypes. Over 600 installations worldwide prove how industry professionals across the globe successfully use the unique capabilities to visualize intricate finishing effects like varnish, embossing or cold foiling, creating proofs and mock-ups that are second to none. Designed as a complete system, it integrates powerful software, specific printer hardware, and a diverse portfolio of proofing substrates, effortlessly ensuring optimal results.

Furthermore, in collaboration with Mutoh, Japan, CGS ORIS introduced a groundbreaking solution for printing on original substrates. By combining Flex Pack with Mutoh's ValueJet printers and specially formulated inks, CGS ORIS enables printing on almost any kind of flexible or rigid substrate, including shrink films, extremely thin flexibles, uncoated stock or even sheet metal. Unlike for instance UV ink, the inks retain the look and feel of the substrate, creating a prototype, which is indistinguishable from the final product. With its unique features and the support of finishing effects, Flex Pack streamlines the proofing process and delivers optimal results with minimal effort.

Through a combination of innovation, expertise, and strategic partnerships, CGS ORIS continues to redefine the standards of proof printing and color management, empowering industries worldwide with reliable, efficient, and cutting-edge solutions.

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Unboxing – Best Practices

If you search for the term #unboxing on social media channels, you will find lots of videos of happy shoppers unpacking their newly purchased goods. However, the real experience is not only created by the contents, but above all by cleverly designed packaging.

Packaging gives rise to emotions

The perfect packaging already increases the anticipation of the product for the buyer. We can differentiate here: Is it about the individual product packaging, which we also find like this in the retail trade, or about the online shipping of goods, i.e. also different products in one packaging.

The unboxing trend on social media channels is mainly about online shopping.

The brand owners use the "child-in-us" here. We all know the feeling of eagerly waiting for the delivery service to finally ring the doorbell and bring our recently ordered goods.

The trend clearly shows that if a brand manages to design the packaging in such a way that the unpacking alone becomes an experience, it has another marketing instrument to bind its customers.

What makes a good packaging?

Just as in retail, the same applies to online shipping: material is brand. For a highquality product, equivalent materials are selected. For a sustainable product, ideally a recyclable material is used.

To be part of the unboxing trend, the brand must also pay attention to the arrangement and surprise in the packaging. The inlay as well as the filling material are crucial and also how the products are presented.

For example, brand manufacturers often use tissue paper inside for luxury goods. The buyer gets the feeling of giving himself a present.

The Chanel brand, for example, focuses on the protection of its product. The luxury bags are encased in a protective bag of the appropriate size, lie, surrounded by

tissue paper, in a high-quality cardboard box with a magnetic closure. Every single element underlines the brand values.

Anyone who has ever bought an Apple product knows that unboxing becomes an emotional experience. The packaging, the product and the arrangement within the box are consistent. At the same time, the type of outer packaging emphasises the brand values. The carton is just as high-quality as the contents. The feel is adapted to the product. When you open the carton, the product lies, well protected, in the centre of the moment. There are no distractions. The product speaks for itself.

Both brands have one more thing in common: the packaging usually does not simply end up in the wastepaper basket. In most cases, the packaging is kept or even reused.

With an individual insert, brands bind their customers. The buyers feel flattered when they find a personalised attention in the package. Many brands address their customers with a personal greeting in the package or include an individual goodie. Digitalisation makes it possible for mailorder companies to use their customer data for precisely this process. The personal greeting can make Programmatic Print processes easier for us.

The synergy of print media and digital media: a secure future for products

In a world increasingly characterised by technological advances and digitalisation, companies face the constant challenge of protecting their products from counterfeiting and fraud.

Product piracy and brand counterfeiting can not only cause significant financial losses, but also undermine consumer confidence in a brand. To effectively counter this threat, the industry is developing innovative solutions that increase product security while protecting brand integrity. One promising technology in this context is the Optical Variable Device (OVD), which, in combination with digital media, opens up new ways of ensuring product security.

Definition of Optical Variable Device (OVD)

Optical Variable Devices, or OVDs for short, are special holographic printing elements that show different visual

effects depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions. This makes them extremely difficult to reproduce and provides effective protection against counterfeiting. They are available in various forms, including stickers, labels and films.

Brand security - why is the industry developing such solutions?

Brand and product security is a top priority for companies. With increasing globalization and easier access to production and distribution opportunities, it is becoming easier for criminals to bring counterfeit goods to market. This can not

only affect a company's revenue, but also shake customer confidence and damage a brand's reputation. To counteract this scenario, companies are looking for ways to make their products more secure and detect counterfeits. This strengthens the relationship with the consumer and creates long-term customer loyalty.

Variable data - how do we use it to achieve greater security?

The combination of OVDs with variable data is an important component in increasing product safety. Variable data makes it possible to give each product a unique identification. This data can be serial numbers, production data or QR codes, for example, which vary from print to print.

The combination of OVDs and variable data is particularly effective as it creates a double layer of protection. The holographic OVDs serve as physical security features, while the variable data enables digital identification and traceability. In this way, companies can not only protect their products from counterfeiting, but also ensure the integrity of their supply chain and improve traceability. This creates a strong deterrent against product piracy.

NFC / QR Code and CoWhy these carriers?

NFC (Near Field Communication), QR codes and other digital carriers play an important role in the integration of OVDs into the digital world and have undergone rapid development in recent years. They enable consumers to retrieve information about a product quickly and easily, and above all contactlessly.

By scanning a QR code or establishing an NFC connection, consumers can verify the authenticity of a product and also access confidential information such as origin, production date, authentication and security features. These technologies create a convenient way to transfer information from physical products to digital platforms.

In addition, these digital carrier supports allow companies to collect valuable data about buyer behavior, the distribution of their products and potential security

OVDs. These solutions offer excellent protection against counterfeiting and are widely used in various industries, from food to pharmaceuticals.

Another example is TrustConcept, a company that also specializes in integrating security technologies into printed products. They offer solutions that combine OVDs with digital elements to create a comprehensive security solution for brands.

breaches. This information is crucial for responding quickly to problems and further improving product safety.

Examples from exhibitors

Some companies are already leading the way in developing security solutions that combine OVDs and digital media. One example is KURZ, which produces highquality security films and stickers with

They offer a wide range of technologies, including NFC tags and QR codes, to increase product security and guarantee customers a protected shopping experience.

Summary and outlook

The combination of print media, especially Optical Variable Devices, with digital media has the potential to significantly improve product safety. The industry has recognized that the challenges of brand security and product protection are becoming increasingly complex and that a holistic approach is required.

The ongoing development and integration of physical security features, variable data and digital carriers creates a robust defense against product piracy. Companies can ensure that their products are authentic and provide consumers with a high level of trust and additional information. Brand and product security remains a key concern for businesses, and the combination of print media and digital solutions will undoubtedly play a key role in this.

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HEIDELBERG launches inkjet system Gallus One into Asia Pacific market.

From January 30th to February 2nd, a four-days label printing open house was carried out in Heidelberg Indonesia’s showroom in Jakarta.

With a total of 230 participants from the Asia Pacific Region the event was well received. Dario Urbinati, CEO of the Gallus Group and Thomas Frank, Heidelberg’s regional director for Asia Pacific had the opportunity to welcome label printers from all across Asia and Oceania.

Live demonstrations of the brand new Gallus One inkjet press and the innovative Gallus Labelmaster 440 flexo press were in the center of the activities. Information on Gallus’ Eco-system

based on the proven Prinect workflow and embellishment by means of Screeny technology rounded off the event.

Frank pointed out that label printing is gaining importance for the Heidelberg Group’s business in the region. “For this reason, we have opened the new showroom here in Jakarta, right in the center of our region, in a country where packaging and label production are growing well above the global average”.

Gallus CEO Dario Urbinati and his head of global sales, Mr. Thomas Schweizer were engaged in intensive conversations about smart, connected printing and the future of the label and packaging industry. At the event they also had the opportunity to answer numerous questions about Gallus’ new and first alldigital press, the Gallus One.

The Gallus One is equipped with a range of automation features, to ensure the most competitive TCO while maintaining the highest print quality, consistency and reliability. Additionally, with the fully digital printing press,ease of operation is taken to a new level by including a newly

developed automated print head cleaning method, eliminating the need for manual cleaning and extending the lifespan of the print heads.

The Gallus One is able to print 70 Meter/ Minute, even with high opacity white of up to 85%. It has a printing width of 340 mm and is able to print on a wide variety of self adhesive materials like papers and plastics as well as unsupported materials. Further extensions to the Gallus One will be displayed during drupa 2024 in Düsseldorf.

Both wellknown brands, HEIDELBERG and Gallus, offer solutions which are now combined in a joint Eco-system. R&D specialists from Switzerland and Germany joined forces to create and implement an integrated workflow which includes the Gallus One, inkjet inks, remote service functions and digital expertise. First installations of Gallus’ new digital press are already successfully producing in Europe and the US. “This is a sound basis for our regional launch here. We have the infrastructure in Asia to handle press hardware, software and consumbles” adds Frank.

2024 ENTRY FORM

THE 2024 ASIAN PACKAGING

EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Singapore - Malaysia - Hong Kong - China - Thailand - Vietnam - Japan - Korea - Indonesia - Philippines - IndiaPakistan - Cambodia - Taiwan - Bangladesh - Sri Lanka - Myanmar - Brunei

The Asian Packaging Excellence Awards is the only regional Independent Packaging Print competition. Since 2001, awarding Gold Silver and Bronze for packaging printers who have excelled in producing world class quality. The judges are non-supplier but are retired educators or production professionals and come from all over Asia/Europe/Australia.

* We MUST have 2 consecutive samples for each job in ALL catergories you enter (If 1 is damaged)

* ONLY 3 jobs allowed for each catergory that you enter.

FLEXO

1. Narrow Web Flexo (up to 500mm width only)

1a Paper/Board

1.b Film

2. Mid Web Flexo (501mm to 914mm width only)

2a .Paper/Bpard

2b Film

3. Wide Web Flexo (915mm and over)

3a . Paper/Board

3b Film

4.Carton & Cups

5.Post Print for Corrugated

6.Pre Print for Corrugated

LABELS

1. Flexo

2. Letterpress

3. Offset Labels

4. Gravure Labels

5. Combination Printing (Many different processes)

6. Non Pressure Sensitive material

7.Digital Labels

7a. Up to 4 colours

7b. 4 to 5 colours

7c. 5 to 6 colours

7d. 7 + Colours

GRAVURE

1. Paper/Board

2. Metallised Paper/ Aluminium Foil Surface Print

3. Film

3a.. Surface Print

3b. Reversive Print

4.Speciality Gravure (Must provide written explanation)

OTHER PROCESS

6. Embellishment

7 Mockup/Sample

8 Digital Packaging

9 Hybrid Printing

10 Offset Packaging

WIN THE BEST IN SHOW 2024 AWARD

THIS IS YOU FREE ENTRY FORM. PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY SO WE CAN READ IT

PLEASE READ: Asian Packaging Excellence Awards are open to all packaging compnaies across Asia. It is free to enter and winners will be presented Gold Silver Bronze awards live on stage in Vietnam 8th November 2024. If you do not attend, we will not send awards to you. Jobs must have been produced from November 2023 till September 20th 2024.

*Web Width ___________________Other detials_______________________________________

If you would like to supply more information, please attach this to Section A above

Please send your entries to: Send your best work to: ATT Asian Packaging Excellence Awards

THE SHIFT 24 Conference will be held in Ho Chi Minh Vietnam on the 7th and 8th November 2024 and the Asian Packaging Excellence Awards dinner will be the 8th after the SHIFT Conference

The SHIFT 24 conference (now in its 21st year) is designed to give Packaging companies, no matter what area of production they are involved in, a view on the trends and technologies that effect business today.

Supported by the leading manufacturers and suppliers, the event offers you the chance to hear from world leading speakers on a whole range of industry topics. Also meet and network with other companies like yours at this intensive one-day event.

More detailed information will be available in the coming weeks so mark this date in your calendar, 7-8th November 24, Ho Chi Minh - Vietnam..

And if you enter the Asian Packaging Excellence Awards, we hope to see you on stage receiving your Awards for excellence in packaging live on stage. See you then!

VIETNAM

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The importance of colour management in digital printing

Colour management is the invisible hero in digital printing, ensuring that the colours on the screen appear exactly the same on the printed material.

In this article you will learn why colour management is essential to achieve flawless print results. Prepare to explore the world of colour management and understand why there is no room for error.

Why is colour management important?

Imagine you are creating an important promotional material or a print project where the correct colours are crucial. Everything looks perfect on your screen, but when the printed product is in your hands, the colours don't match. Why does this happen?

The answer lies in colour management. This method ensures that the colours you see on your monitor appear exactly the same on the printed material. In other words, it ensures that red is really red and does not unintentionally become a different shade, such as magenta.

The role of colour accuracy

Colour accuracy is more than just an aesthetic detail. Especially in business contexts, it is crucial that your colours are consistent and accurate. Think of brand logos used on different marketing

materials. Variations in colours could affect the brand image.

Challenges without colour management

If you forgo colour management, you risk your green graphics suddenly turning a strange turquoise or your deep blue turning into a rainbow. The result is disappointing and incorrect printed products.

Colour management: the solution However, you don't have to be an expert in colour management to avoid these

problems. There is specialised colour management software that can help you calibrate your printers, create colour profiles and ensure that your colours are always accurate.

In conclusion, colour management may not play a glamorous role in digital printing, but it is crucial. It ensures that your print projects are accurate and visually stunning.

So prepare to conquer the world of digital printing with colour management. Because when it comes to displaying colours correctly, there is no tolerance for error.

The importance of colour management in digital printing

Colour management is the invisible hero in digital printing, ensuring that colours on screen appear exactly the same on printed material. It is indispensable for high-quality, accurate print results. The challenges of no colour management can lead to unwanted colour variations that affect the quality of a print project. Fortunately, there is special software that ensures precision. Overall, colour management is the key to visually impressive and professional print results. So colour errors are a thing of the past in the world of digital printing.

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Remote Monitoring in the Printing Industry as an Opportunity

The printing and packaging industry is known for its advanced technologies and precision work. However, like any other industry, it faces ongoing challenges and requirements.

One of these opportunities is remote monitoring of machines and printing processes. Why is it necessary, what are the benefits, and who benefits from it? In this article, we will answer these questions and shed light on the various tools and technologies used for remote monitoring in the printing industry.

Why is Remote Monitoring Necessary?

In recent years, the print industry has seen significant developments, and the demands for quality and efficiency are higher than ever. In a state-of-the-art printing facility, numerous machines and processes run simultaneously, and it's crucial that everything operates smoothly. Any disruption or delay can result in

significant costs and impact customer satisfaction.

In the past, monitoring machines and processes often relied on physical presence on-site. This meant that technicians had to be near the machines constantly to identify and resolve issues. This led to higher operational costs and longer downtimes.

Remote monitoring allows machines and processes to be monitored in realtime from remote locations. This enables a faster response to problems and more efficient resource utilization. It is particularly advantageous during times like the COVID-19 pandemic when travel and physical presence were restricted.

The Benefits of Remote Monitoring Remote monitoring offers a multitude of benefits for the print and packaging industry:

1. Maximizing Uptime: Continuous monitoring allows machines to operate nearly around the clock, maximizing production capacity and minimizing costly downtimes.

2. Early Detection of Faults: Real-time monitoring enables the early detection of problems or malfunctions. This allows technicians to respond quickly to issues before they lead to major breakdowns.

3. Efficient Maintenance: Technicians can assess the condition of machines

before arriving on-site and prepare the necessary tools and parts in advance. This saves time and reduces downtime.

4. Minimizing Costs: Remote monitoring reduces the need for physical presence on-site, resulting in cost savings related to travel and labour, contributing to overall operational efficiency.

5. Global Production: Remote monitoring enables centralized control and monitoring of all locations from a single point, optimizing global production and logistics.

Who Benefits from Remote Monitoring?

The benefits of remote monitoring extend to various stakeholders in the print and packaging industry:

1.Printing Companies: Printing companies benefit from increased uptime, reduced downtimes, and cost savings. This allows them to be more competitive and deliver high-quality products on time.

2. Machine Manufacturers: Manufacturers of printing machines can offer remote monitoring services to improve their machine's performance and provide technical support.

3. Technicians and Engineers: Technicians and engineers can monitor and maintain machines and processes from remote locations, increasing their efficiency and flexibility.

4. Customers: Customers benefit from higher product quality and on-time deliveries, leading to better satisfaction

and long-term business relationships. Tools and Technologies for Remote Monitoring

Remote monitoring of machines and printing processes is enabled by a variety of tools and technologies. Here are some of the key tools developed for remote monitoring and maintenance in the industry:

1. Telemetry and Sensor Technology: Sensors and telemetry systems are attached to machines to collect real-time data, such as temperature, pressure, speed, and production rates.

2. IoT Platforms: The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a crucial role in remote monitoring. IoT platforms enable the connection of machines and the transmission of data to central servers or cloud services.

3. Remote Access Software: Specialized software applications allow technicians and engineers to access and control machines from remote locations.

4. Data Analysis Tools: Advanced data analysis tools are used to process the collected data and identify patterns that may indicate problems or maintenance needs.

5. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies are used for remote technician support. With AR glasses or VR headsets, technicians can receive real-time instructions from experts on-site.

6. Remote Maintenance Systems: These systems allow technicians to perform maintenance remotely by adjusting machine settings or conducting software updates, for example.

7. Alarm and Notification Systems: Automated alarms and notifications are triggered when critical machine parameters are outside the normal range or when maintenance is required.

8. Mobile Apps: Special mobile applications allow users to check machine data and status updates from their mobile devices.

9. Cloud Platforms: Data can be stored and processed in secure cloud environments, enabling access and analysis from anywhere.

These tools and technologies are crucial for efficient remote monitoring and maintenance of machines in the print and packaging industry, as they maximize uptime, minimize downtime, and enhance overall efficiency.

Conclusion

Remote monitoring of machines and printing processes in the print and packaging industry is necessary to meet the demands for quality, efficiency, and flexibility. It offers a wide range of benefits, including maximizing uptime, early fault detection, efficient maintenance, cost savings, and optimized global production and logistics. The various tools and technologies available for remote monitoring make it an indispensable solution for companies in this industry.

CONGRATULATIO N S 2023

We are thrilled to announce that our innovation has been recognized by Good Design Award 2023 for our two outstanding production color printers — Revoria Press PC1120 & ApeosPro Series!

Production Color Printer ApeosPro Series

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drupa in Düsseldorf: The prime-time global printing industry

Over a period of eleven days, 1,427 exhibitors from 50 countries will present innovative technologies, solutions and topics that affect the industry now and in future. A wide range of special events will provide valuable know-how. Focus on digitalisation and sustainability.

There’s a great deal of excitement in the international printing industry right now, as everyone will finally be able to meet up in person and exchange information at drupa, the world’s most important event for the sector, from 28 May to 07 June in Düsseldorf. In these very volatile times characterised by large social and also rapid technological changes and global megatrends, companies have to react:

Those who do not anticipate important developments and adjust accordingly will endanger their competitive edge and waste opportunities for the future.

drupa is being held at just the right moment for this. In an international comparison, the leading global trade fair for print technologies both demonstrates the state of the industry’s art and a wide spectrum of innovations which will shape the future and offers a multitude of opportunities for high-calibre knowledge exchange, discussions and networking with word-renowned sector experts.

On a net area of approx. 140,000 m² with 18 show halls, 1,427 exhibitors from 50 countries will present the entire spectrum of current trends and visionary ideas within print technology. Production of packaging and printed packaging are two areas which have also significantly gained in importance. From renowned global players to aspiring newcomers and startups – the list of registered exhibitors is almost a who-is-who of the printing and packaging industry.

Here is a small sample: Bobst, Canon, Comexi, Duplo, EFI, Epson, ESKO, Fujifilm, Heidelberg, Horizon, HP, Kodak, Koenig & Bauer, Kolbus, Komori, Konica Minolta, KURZ, Landa, Müller Martini, Ricoh, Screen, Windmöller & Hölscher, Xeikon. You can view the complete list of exhibitors online at www. drupa.de.

drupa 2024 focus topics

Limited fossil resources and carbon

emissions have caused sustainability to become an essential part of long-term company strategies. Depending on the use of resources, the print and packaging industries are already using manufacturing procedures that save energy and resources today. drupa explains the important facts for sustainable production of print and packaging solutions and which trends are evolving within the sector in order to achieve the goal of a circular economy.

Digitalisation is changing analogue processes, while artificial intelligence is taking on more and more tasks in Industry 4.0. drupa presents top technologies across the industry’s entire added value chain with a special focus on future and cross-sectional technologies. With this scenario in mind, topics like circular economy, automation, printing/ finishing 4.0, artificial intelligence, platform economy and connectivity will be taking centre stage in the conference programme and expert forumsSpecial

prime-time event for the

forums

In times of constant change, disruptive processes and the resulting new business models, the drupa special forums are important aids for decision-making. They provide impetus and show best practices which the industry cannot do without. Together with its partners, drupa relies on its impressive range of competence across the industry and the topics which concern the future of its target groups. drupa cube

Why is printing more important than ever in the digital age? Why do customers not always perceive printed products as sustainable? And how do you calculate your carbon footprint? These are just some of the issues that will be discussed in the drupa cube in 2024. In more than 50 sessions, the conference offers inspiration and expertise. The programme features five great keynotes from renowned international industry specialists and presentations about topics like increasing your business success, circular economy and sustainability, the future of print and packaging as well as sessions and best practice examples regarding new business models and trends. Hall 6/Booth F03

drupa touchpoint sustainability touchpoint sustainability deals with the role of the printing and paper industries in sustainable transformation and offers an overview of current, mid- and long-

term developments. Technologies from mechanical and systems engineering are especially important in this context, above all with regard to quality, process safety during production and sustainability.

Digitalisation and AI play key parts in order to accelerate the transformation process in the print and paper industries and to realise scaling effects. Manufacturers, industry players, brands and users together show how change can become reality in their many exhibits at touchpoint sustainability. Visitors to touchpoint sustainability can also enjoy a broad accompanying programme. Hall 14/Booth D60

drupa touchpoint packaging touchpoint packaging concentrates on visionary, intelligent packaging solutions and brings brand owners together with designers, print service providers and converters. The involvement of students and young talents in partner projects with exhibitors promises unique packaging solutions for folding boxes, labels, flexible packaging and corrugated cardboard. Beyond this, there will be discussion of important questions regarding global megatrends and their impact on packaging production, for example sustainability or e-commerce.

The five key topics of touchpoint packaging are neo-ecology, connectivity,

glocalisation, consumer mind and future regulations. Hall 3/Booth/B31

drupa dna

Big ideas, tiny budget – for many young companies, it’s not easy to make the right contacts and establish their fascinating and innovative solutions on the market. For this target group, drupa has created a special platform: drupa next age (dna). Newcomers, young talents, start-ups and established companies can network on a level playing field, find matching partners for cooperation and exchange innovative business ideas. For some participants, this is the first chance ever to present their businesses to an international audience of experts. Hall 7/Booth 09

drupa touchpoint textile

The drupa touchpoint textile presents the world’s first digital textile microfactory. This is a fully connected, integrated process chain – from digital simulation to design, animation and virtual rendering to production. One thing is sure: The industry is constantly gaining new fields of application, and inkjet technology not only opens doors to sectors like clothing and fashion, but also to the interior design, architecture, automotive and many other vertical markets. Hall 4/Booth B30

For details regarding the programme, partners and speakers of each special forum, see: https://www.drupa.de/de/ Programm

drupa 2024 is open for visiting professionals from Tuesday, 28 May to Friday, 07 June 2024, Mon–Thurs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sat + Sun from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A 1-day ticket costs 60 euros, a 3-day ticket 165 euros, and a 5-day ticket 255 euros. Information about parking tickets and tickets for public transport is also available at the ticket shop: www.drupa.de/1130.

24hr Central Tokyo Integrated Production Facility Specializing in Short Lead Time Small-lot Jobs

Vanfu Co., Ltd. operates a 24-hour printing facility (Takebashi Printing Center) in the heart of Tokyo, providing a one-stop production system from order receipt to printing, processing, and shipping.

The company's greatest strength, taking advantage of its location, lies in small-lot printing and short lead time production, with the ability to accept and send orders on the same day. To further enhance their services, the company is promoting automation and labor-saving. In January 2023, they introduced the Lithrone GX40RP advance (40-inch dedicated perfecting offset printing press) and began full operation. We spoke to President and Representative Director Takayuki Suto, Vice President Shin Yamano, Production Management Section Manager Nozomu Hikichi, and Printing Section Manager Takuya Matsuda about the background, operational status, and effects of the introduction.

Prioritizing customer requests and providing customer-centric services

Vanfu Co., Ltd. was founded in 1980 as a phototypesetting and platemaking company, and with the rise of desktop publishing the company launched a shop-type service bureau specializing in platemaking for professional users. Building on their DTP expertise, Vanfu ventured into the on-press proofing business. Currently they offer a one-stop service from order receipt to printing, processing, and shipping. The company has three sales channels: "Sales," "Shop," and "Internet," allowing users to choose the appropriate channel based on their needs.

President Suto explains, "From the beginning, we have focused on the concept of 'providing the necessary amount at the necessary place when needed,' which aligns with sustainability.

'Small lots' and 'short lead time' have been our concepts. We have business with about 20,000 companies, and over 90% are local customers in Tokyo.

Takayuki Suto, President and Representative Director

Inside the Takebashi Printing Center, where same-day evening shipping is achieved. The facility is equipped with automated production equipment for transport, packing, and shipping of plates and printed materials. In September of this year, four cutting machines were replaced with the Apressia CT115 (Programmable Hydraulic Clamp Cutter) which commenced operations.

Time is a crucial factor for our Tokyo customers, so we have adopted a production system that allows us to deliver the products immediately without assigning presses. All employees are highly motivated and constantly researching how to fulfill customer requests promptly. This is an essential condition for achieving short lead times."

Division of work between people and machines along with active promotion of automation and laborsaving

To handle numerous projects, Vanfu focuses on automation and laborsaving in production. "We are advancing automation from the point where data is received to delivery, and we separate the roles of people and machines. For example, we automatically check the data received from customers.

Internet projects are automatically impositioned for gang-run printing, including paper type, delivery time, weight, color, and finishing, thanks to

our own unique technology. We strive to provide customers with short lead times and low-cost printing services," says President Suto.

He adds, "'Accepting all requests and not refusing any customer request' is our motto, so we handle a wide range of products."

Effect of Lithrone GX40RP advance introduction

Attending a tour of the Tsukuba Plant was the spark that led the company, which previously owned multiple other perfectors, to consider introducing the Lithrone GX40RP advance.

"The precision of the Lithrone GX40RP press's front-back registration was impressive. We conducted a printing test using the press under the same conditions as for difficult jobs at our company. The short makeready time and outstanding printing quality with the press made it very attractive to us. Additionally, during a tour of the manufacturing process, we were impressed and thought, 'This manufacturer is amazing,' and simultaneously we believed that the Komori press could withstand the high usage demands of our workload," he noted.

After the introduction, President Suto expressed his satisfaction: "Choosing

"The Lithrone alignment thanks to printing."

Nozomu

Lithrone GX40RP advance achieves precise alignment even with challenging 0.06mm thin paper to stable paper transport in one-pass double-sided printing."

Nozomu Hikichi, Section

Manager

"With an awareness that 'anyone can do it,' the operation is currently handled by veterans. However, we aim to assign responsibility to younger staff in the future."

Vice President Shin Yamano

the Komori press was the right decision.

First, the support was very reassuring. There were unexpected challenges since it was a new press for us, but Komori provided us with solid support until it was fully operational. Furthermore, the introduction of the new press boosted the motivation of the operators. Maintenance became routine, and the conscious effort to use the machine carefully positively influenced quality."

Changes in production through double-sided printing with singlesided gripping and automated devices

Nozomu Hikichi, Section Manager in charge of Production Management, notes, "With the single-sided gripper system and no need for flipping the sheets, productivity has improved significantly. Quality has also seen a remarkable improvement. It is used as a dedicated press for sales projects, and customer evaluations of the quality have risen. During the busy period half a month after the launch of full operation,

it delivered higher productivity than any other press."

Addressing the effect of the installation he further states, "The A-APC (Asynchronous Automatic Plate Changer) completes job changeover in about 3 minutes since plate changing and blanket cleaning are performed in parallel. From a quality assurance perspective, the PQA-S (Inline Print Quality Assessment System) has proven invaluable. Inspection levels can be finely adjusted, and marking by automatic number tape insertion is accurate."

Takuya Matsuda, the Printing Section Manager, assessed the press, stating: "The ease of getting the right registration with single-sided gripping and adjustability are significant advantages. With the press of a button, it automatically performs frontback registration, reducing the burden of operations. We use the Komori press for jobs with challenging registration requirements, particularly such as outline or intricate characters. Additionally, the PDC-SX (Spectral Print Density

Control) function, which adjusts color while measuring, is more accurate than human correction and has proven to be extremely helpful."

Creating value at the company factory and optimizing print management

President Suto talked about his vision for the future: "The improvement of press functionality and performance not only enhances product quality but also boosts the morale and confidence of operators and sales personnel. While we currently focus on thin paper, we aim to expand into small-lot package printing.

We want to create value that can only be produced in this factory by combining our know-how with new elements. We have begun initiatives related to sustainability, including VOCs and our carbon footprint. Furthermore, we plan to put even more effort into print management, proposing optimal printing solutions for our customers."

BOBST NOVA DA 800 LAMINATOR running at 300 m/min

A new era of innovative packaging: exploring the development path of MINTPACK

Hunan Great Wall Mintpack New Material Technology Co., Ltd. (‘Great Wall Mintpack’) manufactures high-quality paper and flexible packaging for customers around the world.

Founded in 2015 but tracing its origins back to 1981, the company recently invested in a new headquarters based in Jiuhua Economic Development Zone, Xiangtan, as it kick-starts a new phase in its development.

Great Wall Mintpack’s new site is equipped with world-leading printing and laminating lines, digital management systems, modern clean workshops, and a suite of BOBST equipment. With an expert team comprising technical R&D and quality management professionals, and over four decades’ experience supplying high-quality consumer goods packaging, Great Wall Mintpack has successfully diversified into several markets and is primed to achieve further growth.

Great Wall Mintpack’s packaging solutions

Great Wall Mintpack oversees a diverse portfolio of innovative packaging

solutions, including aluminum pouches, paper bags, boxes, and flexible packaging. The company also produces secondary packaging such as folding leaflets and postcards, and prides itself on its reputation for creating high quality products that are often finished with hot foil stamping and anticounterfeiting technology.

The company is committed to creating packaging that is designed with sustainability in mind. In collaboration with academics, it has conducted extensive research into biodegradable and recyclable materials and has adopted its findings to incorporate these environmentally-conscious design features into its products.

Throughout its history, Great Wall Mintpack’s expertise in packaging design and commitment to innovation has helped it forge lasting relationships with leading brands. Today, it caters to more

than 20 partners in sectors including food, beauty, cosmetics, daily chemicals, electronics, and more – and through its partnership with BOBST, is overcoming any emerging challenges to ensure it can continue offering outstanding packaging.

General Manager Li Deng emphasized:

"Great Wall Mintpack has persistently faced challenges, investing in both hardware and software, elevating management standards, and expanding production scale. The strategic partnership with BOBST has proven to be a wise decision, and as our business continues to thrive, our collaboration with existing customers has strengthened, and we have forged partnerships with new, outstanding corporate clients."

Joining forces with BOBST

Great Wall Mintpack’s investment in BOBST equipment was intended to enhance its internal capabilities and digital management proficiency with advanced SAP & ERP systems. These investments included BOBST's RS 5003 gravure printing press and the NOVA DA 800 multi-technology laminator.

Just over a year after its installation, the benefits of this technology are clear to see. The RS 5003 gravure printing press operates smoothly and efficiently, significantly improving Great Wall Mintpack’s production efficiency and helping it reduce energy consumption.

Wang Dong, Director of Great Wall Mintpack’s Equipment Department, highlighted several key features: The RS 5003’s tension system enables highprecision rewinding and unwinding tension control, reducing splicing and cutting losses. Even at speeds of 300350m/min, it ensures high-precision winding and stable registration.

He said: “Fast changeovers are facilitated by a swift-changing scraper, improving accuracy, and reducing knife lines. The dryer design, featuring BOBST's dryer slag liquid system, enhances drying efficiency and energy savings. The dynamic balancing design of the cooling tube improves overprinting accuracy. Even when overprinting with matte ink, it’s easy to achieve the ideal state. “Finally, the TAPS system facilitates onekey registration. When transitioning to a new plate, registration can be calibrated directly, reducing the need for manual color checks, minimizing losses, and making it user-friendly for operators.”

The DA 800 multi-technology laminator is also helping Great Wall Mintpack achieve faster changeovers through its swift

disassembly and recipe memorization. Its horizontal dryer facilitates easy adjustments without causing damage, and the maximum material change waste is only 50 meters. Its Registron® automatic registration and positioning cold sealant coating technology can detect the cold sealant coating position in real time, reducing waste, improving the optical performance of composite products, and minimizing the generation of crystal points and bubbles.

The uniqueness of Great Wall Mintpack's equipment extends beyond BOBST's printing and laminating equipment, encompassing intelligent threedimensional warehouses, automatic color matching systems, ERP management systems, lamination curing workshops, and one-object-one-code inkjet coding workshops. These devices underscore a strong commitment to digital management, technological innovation, and customer service.

Looking ahead, Li Deng stated: "Many of our outstanding customers have successfully distributed their products around the world, in no small part thanks to our packaging solutions. Our goal is to manufacture high-quality packaging, support exceptional Chinese brand enterprises, and collaborate with customers to showcase Chinese products worldwide. This is our long-term planning objective for the future."

Great Wall Mintpack believes the key to its success lies in its unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. The company understands that only by continuously enhancing its capabilities can it maintain a competitive edge, and this mindset has established its commendable reputation. Going forward, supported by BOBST, the company looks set to expand its innovative horizons and reach new heights in the packaging industry.

Attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by the Houthi militia in Yemen are leading to increased freight costs and delivery times—and experts say the impact is soon going to hit consumers.

The world of labels, packaging and design is entering into a period of re-stabilisation in 2024.

2023 continued to experience lagging economic and supply chain effects from not only COVID but also a range of other global factors that put pressure on costs and service delivery. This year will see brands balance optimism with energy to grow their brands and build loyalty.

Check out our predictions for what will be the HOTTEST TRENDS in 2024 and let us know your thoughts:

2024’s HOTTEST TRENDS for labels & packaging

1) PASTEL BUZZ

Peach Fuzz is the New BUZZ!

2) BIOPHILIC DESIGN Get back to Nature!

3) AI DATA

Peach Fuzz is the New BUZZ!

4) RETURN OF DRAGONS

2024 is the Year of the Dragon!

5) A BIT OF HELP, PLEASE!

Design to Revive & Survive THRIVE

1) PASTEL BUZZ

Peach Fuzz is the New BUZZ!

With the Pantone Color Institute naming the Color of the Year 2024 as PANTONE

13-1023 Peach Fuzz, this pastel orangeypeach colour is described as a ‘cozy and comforting hue, that captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It is all about re-establishing a sense of caring, sharing and collaboration’. Pastels have been super popular in various iterations in recent years, including Bright Pastels and in physical and digital combinations that create stunning visual contrast.

Soft pastels in blue, pink and green are being used with soft gradients and background colours that transition from light to dark to add depth and complexity. Given the hugely successful song by Taylor Swift that is currently touring the world - Lavender Haze lyrics state it perfectly: I feel the lavender haze creepin' up on me.. Surreal, I'm damned if I do give a damn what people say! It seems that pastels are set for a year of exciting re-emergence in fashion, packaging and

design. Expect to see them across a range of products and mediums as brands look to take advantage of this warm embrace!

2) BIOPHILIC DESIGN

Get back to Nature!

Biophilic design seeks to bring natural elements into our increasingly urbanised lives, creating products that connect with our human desire and affinity for nature. By incorporating these elements, materials, textures, colours and patterns into products and designs it is said to stimulate conditions and psychological benefits linked to stress reduction, increased creativity and fostering a sense of well-being and harmony.

IMAGE

https://worldbranddesign.com/studio-blackthorns-created-komo-probiotic-packaging-using-ai-design/

Nostalgic colour pallets like browns, oranges and greens are seeing a resurgence due to design in this area. Brands that do it well combine a range of senses that invoke emotions linked to nature. This includes visuals, sound, touch, smell and sometimes taste. The crude early examples of floral bouquets or pine trees with matching scents are now replaced with products and designs that interlink natural elements creating engagement, emotional connection and brand affiliation. Combine biophilic design with sustainable materials and ecofriendly practices to reinforce your brand or company’s values & you may be on to a winning formula for sales.

3) AI DATA

Bridge the physical & virtual gap

AI continues to grow in image creation and the design of connected and interactive labels and packaging. However, it is as a business tool for the collection and analysis of data where it is booming! Brands of all sizes are using AI data and tools to make decisions around their labels and packaging. Of particular interest is finding ways to create or confirm if packaging and marketing campaigns are aligned with their desired (or current) market and demographic. It also has huge potential to identify new customers through A/B testing (where you run 2 or more potential designs or strategies to different audiences).

Creating ‘virtual’ concepts at a digital level allows brands to assess consumer sentiment without needing to spend money on final artwork, prototypes and marketing samples. But rather than just

‘replace humans’ or print, AI will allow businesses to gain insights, create options and then be able to adjust marketing and business strategies. People ultimately buy ‘real’ products so personalisation and customisation through AI becomes more about product and brand design that aligns the customer and brand connection, bridging the gap between virtual and real.

4) RETURN OF DRAGONS:

2024 is the Year of the Dragon

2024 brings in the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese (or Lunar) Zodiac. The Dragon is a magnificent and highly revered symbol in many cultures. They have long been popular mythical creatures, made all the more so

by television series like ‘Game of Thrones’. The use of their symbology is linked to strength, power, charm, good fortune and success, with the important caveat of remaining down-to-earth and avoiding being too arrogant.

Different cultures utilise and portray dragons in different ways. From symbols of nobility to eternal vitality, boundless power and cosmic strength, dragons maintain a mystical and spiritual allure unlike any other animal in the zodiac. In Vietnam, dragons are often used for the purpose of reassurance, believed to harmonise heaven and earth, bestowing goodness in life.

From entrepreneurs to established brands, expect to see Dragons aplenty in 2024, for where there is a dragon, fortune and prosperity come.

5) A BIT OF HELPPLEASE!

Design to Revive and Survive THRIVE

The growing list of trends, technology, changing legislation and design aesthetics can be both exciting and overwhelming. AI, interactive and connected design, marketing strategies, sustainability goals & packaging options are all highly specialised fields that need professional and pragmatic advice.

A ‘do it all myself’ ethos may fail to recognise that we cannot be ‘experts’ in many of these areas, resulting in mediocre designs, implementation and sales.

Smart brands assess their packaging against market expectations and conditions regularly, allowing them to ‘refresh’, ‘rebrand’ or re-align. Collaborating with appropriate leaders in a field will allow you to make informed decisions and get measurable results. Treating this as an investment can positively impact your business success. Keeping updated and current on packaging design and material options can be time consuming and confusing so ask for help.

https://hhlc.com.vn/?lang=en

QLM works with a number of selected providers in the area of technology, strategy and design to bring your labels and packaging to life. They specialise in crafting and executing marketing strategies tailored to the unique needs of labels, packaging and integrated design to work across multiple platforms.

SUMMARY

The best ‘trends’ aren’t about being someone else, they are the ones that allow YOU and your brand to engage in conversations with your customers and remain relevant. Above all they should act like a compass that connects with and builds new or existing relationships, keeping messaging and imagery aligned while also capturing attention and loyalty. Trends aren’t necessarily new and don’t need to be short-lived fads, they can be bold design choices that you make your own or rebel against to stand out and represent your brand authentically.

The HOTTEST TRENDS of 2024 will work across a wide range of applications, packaging and design mediums. Be inspired by them and showcase YOUR creativity within your community.

IMAGE SOURCE: Nutworks

High-quality printing & robust under all prepress conditions

nyloflex® FTV

Hard photopolymer flexo plate with inherent flat top dots LED optimized plate formulation

Developed for the high end flexible packaging market

Smooth plate surface is able to hold all customized surface screening patterns (e.g. Pixel+ and Woodpecker

nyloflex® FTF

+ Highest ink transfer and excellent highlights out of the box

+ Robust and consistent on press, simple to process, already includes flat top dots and a surface screening pattern

+ Optimal for short (quick to color) and long clean print runs (anti ink-filling)

nyloflex® ACE

+ Known in the market as THE digital plate for high quality Flexible Packaging Print

+ Excellent print results even under challenging printing conditions

+ Very good for long clean print jobs (anti-ink filling)

The future of sustainable printing How AI revolutionised the printing and packaging industry

Sustainability is not a trend, but a revolution of all industries and business sectors. It is now driving our decisions and actions. Across industries, companies are looking for innovations that reduce their environmental footprint on an almost daily basis.

With artificial intelligence, we can automate our process to become a sustainable and responsible company.

AI-driven design and optimisation

AI is revolutionising print design and optimisation. By analysing customer data and preferences, AI algorithms can create customised designs that not only appeal to the target audience, but also minimise waste. For example, AI can optimise the layout of printed pages to reduce paper consumption and ensure that every inch of paper is used effectively.

In addition, AI-driven design helps develop sustainable packaging solutions. By considering factors such as material consumption, transport efficiency and recyclability, we design packaging that is both environmentally friendly and costeffective.

Waste reduction and material efficiency

One of the biggest challenges in the printing and packaging industry is the generation of waste, especially in the form of misprints and excess material. AI-supported quality control systems detect and correct errors in real time, reducing misprints and material waste. This not only saves resources but also reduces production costs.

In addition, AI optimises material consumption by calculating the exact amount of ink, toner or other consumables needed for each print job. This ensures that materials are used efficiently and reduces the overall environmental impact of printing operations.

Sustainable ink and material selection

AI also helps in the selection of

sustainable printing materials and inks. By analysing the environmental impact of different materials and ink options, AI algorithms can recommend greener choices. This includes selecting recycled paper, biodegradable inks and other sustainable options.

Proactive maintenance through artificial intelligence

Predictive maintenance systems are becoming more prevalent in the printing industry. These systems use data from sensors and machine learning algorithms to predict when printing equipment is likely to fail or need maintenance. By proactively responding to maintenance needs, companies can minimise downtime, reduce energy consumption and extend the life of their printing equipment.

Digital transformation and on-demand printing

The shift towards digital printing and ondemand production is a major trend in the

printing industry. Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in this transformation. It enables efficient, personalised production of printed products and goods. Short runs are becoming more cost-effective through digital printing and overproduction is being reduced.

The future of our industry is driven by sustainability and artificial intelligence

With AI-driven design, waste reduction, sustainable material selection, predictive maintenance and digital transformation, the industry is becoming greener and more efficient. Artificial intelligence is enabling the printing industry to meet the growing challenges posed by society and politics. Certainly, there are other solutions to shape and drive the turnaround. However, the algorithms of artificial intelligence are drivers of change and help us to accelerate the processes to the goal.

The multi-talented. Speedmaster CX 75.

Are you still looking for multi-talent that meets all your requirement? There are no challenges in commercial, label, and packaging printing that a Speedmaster CX 75 cannot handle, and no customer requirements it cannot meet.

heidelberg.com/sg

Productivity and sustainability gains with Shine LED Lamp Kitsinnovated by Miraclon

In a rapidly evolving landscape, people are drawn to experiences that satisfy their desire for uniqueness.

Flexographic packaging trade shop and early technology adopter Pacificolor is reaping significant production and sustainability benefits after upgrading from fluorescent exposure to LED technology with a Shine LED Lamp Kit, innovated by Miraclon.

The Shine LED Lamp Kit is notable as a simple, low-cost route to the multiple benefits of LED exposure, necessitating just a straightforward, fast, retrofit upgrade to existing fluorescent exposure frames.

“We’re experiencing faster, more consistent plate exposure times and reduced maintenance. These add up to greatly enhanced productivity in the plate room across the group for a fraction of the cost of alternative routes into LED. In addition, and important from the sustainability perspective, it’s all achieved by ‘upcycling’ our existing equipment.” says Nick Brunk, Pacificolor’s Chief Revenue Officer:

The advantages of LED LED lamps offer significant advantages over fluorescent tubes. They last longer — 5000 hours compared to 800 hours — and do not degrade: intensity remains consistent over time, lamp to lamp and

throughout each individual lamp. LED technology also increases productivity: exposures are not only consistent but up to 20% faster, because the lamps warm up and cool down instantly. Sustainability is enhanced due to reduced waste, lower power consumption and lower disposal costs.

Successful beta testing

Approached by Miraclon to evaluate the Shine LED Lamp Kit, Pacificolor did not hesitate to act as a beta site. Nick states: “Fluorescent exposure technology is on the way out, and the tide has turned in favour of LED. Beta testing gave us the opportunity to confirm our instincts and prove the benefits of LED. Routine measurement of UV output showed no fluctuation in the power the LEDs were putting out.”

Tim Hirsch, Owner and CEO of Pacificolor, has an equally positive take on the benefits of the Shine LED Kit: "The installation of Shine LED has proven to be exceptionally straightforward, seamlessly integrating into our production processes. It has emerged as our preferred exposure solution, primarily due to the notable enhancements it has brought to plate uniformity and efficiency. By adopting Shine LED, we've successfully eliminated

the variables associated with fluorescent UV tubes, resulting in consistency across every plate. Our operators have expressed their satisfaction with this change, as they no longer have to wait for lamps to warm up, and the change in exposure times, leading to an overall improvement in productivity within our plate room.”

Staying ahead of technology

Keeping ahead of technology is a top priority for Pacificolor. The company was an early adopter of FLEXCEL NX Technology from Miraclon, and — to meet the demands of a growing client base — has successively upgraded imaging formats from narrow- to mid- and now wide-web. Pacificolor has also quickly leveraged the latest imaging technologies, including PureFlexo™ Printing, the most advanced iteration of advanced plate surface patterning technology from Miraclon, and screening technologies ProjectBlue® and VORTEXTM, developed by our partners Reproflex3, based in the UK. Switching to LED exposure is in line with what Nick calls “doing our technology due diligence.” He continues:

“This confirmed the shortcomings of fluorescent tube exposure technology, principally the consequences of tubes degrading over time, and at different rates. The resulting risk of inconsistent exposure means we spend a lot of time on process control and maintenance to avoid poorly exposed plates and remakes.”

He adds that the diverse range of work Pacificolor handles calls for even greater quality control. “Between flexible packaging and corrugated, we’re exposing a variety of different reliefs, some deeper than others. Getting consistent fluorescent exposures means following a stringent process to make sure you’re getting the power from the bulbs that you need.

Cut complexity and costs with FLEXCEL NX Solutions.

Simply consistent

Decrease waste and setup with predictable plates

Simply efficient

Increase on-press performance with a robust plate

Simply sustainable

Support sustainable inks and substrates all with the same plate

Simply better

Address your most demanding brand and quality requirements

From prepress to on-press, deliver the efficiencies and productivity needed from your plates to maximize your bottom line.

Koenig & Bauer and Durst Group commit to further capabilities in Joint Venture

Koenig & Bauer and Durst Group have committed to build further R&D capability in the joint venture company they set up almost five years ago to capitalize on the significant opportunities in folding carton and corrugated segments. The parent companies of Koenig & Bauer Durst GmbH will expand its operations in Radebeul, Germany.

Koenig & Bauer Durst is a global market leader of single pass digital sheet-fed press systems and software services for the folding carton and corrugated industry. It leverages the capabilities and know-how of its parent companies to offer an unrivalled portfolio of digital printing machinery that includes the CorruJET and Delta SPC 130 systems for corrugated markets, as well the jointly developed VariJET 106 press for folding carton markets. All presses use water-based food-safe inks & coatings that comply with all regulatory requirements.

Robert Stabler, who has run the joint venture company since its inception, will stand down as Managing Director. He will be succeeded by Daniel Velema, who will join Koenig & Bauer Durst in February 2024. Daniel has extensive domain experience in the printing industry and managing consultancy and has held various senior level management positions. In his last role, Daniel was General Manager of the Prepress activities at XSYS Global, a leading supplier of printing plates, sleeves and prepress equipment for the packaging industry.

Daniel Velema said: “I am really looking forward to joining Koenig & Bauer Durst, which was set up by two technology pioneers in the printing and packaging markets and has a growing presence in the industry. Corrugated and folding carton printers/converters continue to digitize their production environment to increase efficiency, flexibility and to provide a better service to brands and retail. In the long term, this leads to significant cost reductions. Koenig & Bauer Durst’s machinery, software and services offering is well positioned to support and accelerate our customers’ journey and I look forward to working together with our customers, partners and suppliers.”

Christoph Gamper, CEO and Coowner of the Durst Group, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming Daniel to Koenig & Bauer Durst to drive the company forward to the next stages of development. We see a huge opportunity to grow substantially over the next few years. Solid foundations have been laid with the successful launch of the VariJET 106 press, the most productive folding carton digital press on the market, as well as the adoption of our corrugated presses by some of the world’s most innovative and forwardlooking corrugated companies. Robert has been instrumental in developing and leading the joint venture team that has developed high-end systems in fully automatic, industrial-scale production. We want to thank Robert for bringing the joint venture from an idea to a vibrant, standalone company.”

Ralf Sammeck, Koenig & Bauer Board Member and Sheetfed Segment CEO, said: “The spirit embodied by both companies in the joint venture

continues to grow. Combining our strengths is driving digitalization in the packaging industry. In building on the initial foundations, we are increasing our capabilities in our R&D center in Radebeul, the headquarters of the Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed division. To take the joint venture to the next level, we are delighted to have appointed Daniel Velema as the new Managing Director from next February.”

Robert said: “Having led the joint venture company for almost five years, I have been proud to lead a committed team of professionals and establish ourselves as a real force in the industry. The fact that our two parent companies – Koenig & Bauer and Durst, two giants in packaging and printing – have committed to further R&D capabilities speaks volumes about the positive impact we have had in growing our presence significantly in corrugated and folding carton markets. These are ripe for digital transformation – and we have a growing customer base to prove that.”

He added: “I thank all staff, partners and our extremely loyal customer base who have shown unstinting as we have continued to grow and establish our global capabilities as a partner of choice across the world. Together with Daniel, there will be a significant handover period in what I am sure will lead to further success and profitability in the months and years to come.”

Agfa and EFI Forge Strategic Partnership to Propel Digital Print Transformation

Agfa and EFI proudly announce that they have entered into a global strategic partnership aimed at leveraging each other’s cutting-edge technologies. The collaboration between two industry leaders marks a significant milestone in the wide-format inkjet printing arena.

Within the framework of the partnership, Agfa will integrate EFI’s roll-to-roll system into its offerings, while EFI will incorporate Agfa’s high-end hybrid inkjet printers into its suite of solutions. Both printing platforms have established themselves as frontrunners in their respective fields. Customers and prospects stand to gain unparalleled advantages from this strategic collaboration. Through

SPEED UP YOUR PROCESSES

with optical systems for UV curing and drying

the mutual strengthening of the Agfa and EFI portfolios, both companies can present the broadest and most innovative product offering available in the market today, as well as a reliable service infrastructure.

The collaboration will debut on the global stage at the FESPA trade fair in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (19-22 March 2024), where Agfa and EFI will be showcasing the potential of this dynamic collaboration at their respective booths.

Pascal Juéry, CEO of the Agfa-Gevaert Group, said: “Digital Print is one of our company’s key growth engines. This strategic partnership with industryleader EFI will broaden the range of options we can offer to our customers and expand the market reach for our state-of-the-art solutions. It truly is a milestone for our company, and for the wide-format printing industry at large.”

Arnaud Calleja, Vice-President Digital Printing Solutions at Agfa, commented: "We are thrilled to be partnering with EFI. By integrating their roll-to-roll platform into our sign & display offerings, we are poised to deliver an exceptionally diverse product range with unprecedented value to our customer base. At the same time, we can both maintain a dedicated focus on product innovation within our respective specialized domains, ensuring our technologies remain at the forefront of digital print transformation.”

Frank Pennisi, CEO of EFI, stated: “For over thirty years, EFI has focused on the analog to digital conversion of high value print applications. EFI and Agfa are the most trusted brands in the industry and we now have the ability to accelerate our customers’ digital journey and make them even more productive. We are excited for this next chapter and the ability to leverage the strengths of

both organizations to move the industry forward.”

Todd Zimmerman, SVP/GM Display Graphics & OEM Ink at EFI, stated: "This partnership represents a convergence of industry leaders, each bringing unique strengths to the table. The integration of Agfa's hybrid platform into our solutions reaffirms our commitment to providing our customers with the most advanced and comprehensive options available." Agfa and EFI are committed to continuous innovation and expanding the horizons of inkjet printing. Customers can benefit from the strengths and innovative solutions of both companies, while maintaining relationships with their existing partners.

About EFI

EFITM is a global technology company, leading the worldwide transformation from analog to digital imaging. We understand our customers want breakthrough technologies to lead them through their digital journey. That’s why we’re passionate about driving their business growth with a scalable portfolio of products, solutions, services, support, and world-class partnerships for the manufacturing of signage, packaging, textiles, ceramic tiles, and building materials with a wide range of printers and inks.

They work together to increase profits, cut costs, improve productivity, and optimize efficiency – job after job, year after year. We are devoted to our customers. And we definitely believe we have the right people, technology and experience to help them achieve their business goals.